Specialized
Subzero
Gloves

Product Description

User Reviews

Overall Rating:

Value Rating:

Submitted by
wschruba
a Weekend Warrior
from New Jersey

Date Reviewed: January 30, 2012

Strengths: The product is actually broken into two pieces: a micro fleece-lined nylon glove liner, and a pseudo-lobster-claw outer layer. So you already have a bonus there. The liner has suede sections on the three primary fingers, as well as a rubberized grip on the palms. Other than that, the outer shell has a neoprene snot wiping section on the thumb, and two straps for snugging the fit of the gloves/liner. The shell is wind and water proof, to the extent that a snow glove needs to be. The liners have a small clip that allows them to be attached to each other, for ease of storage.

Weaknesses: Specialized chose to break up your fingers such that your index finger would be by itself. In very cold conditions, this robs a single finger of some fairly important radiative heat. As with all bulkier gloves/mittens, dexterity is compromised somewhat. Don't expect to do any complicated tasks wearing these. I would have appreciated a cinching wrist on the liners, to help secure and improve the fit.

Bottom Line:

The bottom line is that these gloves are worth it. Up to the -10F that I've experienced, my hands have remained functional and warm, uncomfortably so, at times. In warmer conditions, the outer shell can be used in its own right, as can the liner, which is moderately wind and water resistant. On a bike in cold weather, your hands and toes are especially at risk, essentially not moving for long periods of time. A good pair of gloves solves that problem, and should be a part of anyone's collection.